Born in Coney Island, NY, Topper moved to L.A. at the age of 8, and served in the Navy during WWII.

He wrote, directed and produced such films as “Hell Squad,” “Tank Commandos” “Diary of a High School Bride” and “War is Hell,” most of which were distributed by Samuel Arkoff’s AIP. He then became head of production for AIP, where made more than 26 films and directed titles including “The Strangler,” “The Hard Ride” and “The Devil’s 8.” His producing credits include “Space Monster,” “Thunder Alley,” “Wild in the Streets” and “CHOMPS.”

Topper was active in the Variety Clubs of America, and wrote, directed, produced and narrated fundraising films such as “Touch of a Child” for the org.